1983 Ford Tempo vs. 2002 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2002 Smart Roadster is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Tempo weights approximately 225 kg more than 2002 Smart Roadster.
Because 2002 Smart Roadster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Tempo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1983 Ford Tempo (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Tempo | 2002 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Tempo | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2370 mm |
